The PEAK Polar Bear Swim has become an annual New Year’s Day tradition in Port Alberni at Canal Waterfront Park. This year’s event was a fundraiser for the Bread of Life, with the Uptown Merchants of Port Alberni offering to pay a twoonie for every registered swimmer.

Approximately 200 swimmers took the chilly dive into the water, with hundreds more looking on.

Pat Deakin, wearing a tuxedo and carrying a martini glass, won first prize for best costume. Best group costume went to “Presence of Christmas”—the team dressed up as a Christmas tree and presents. The oldest swimmer was Tom Stokes, at age 73.

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Abigail Silvester was ready to jump into the water dressed as a Christmas present. ELENA RARDON PHOTO

Swimmers return to shore after taking a chilly dive on New Year’s Day. ELENA RARDON PHOTO